Electromagnetism and Electrostatics

A set of flashcards covering key concepts and terminology related to electromagnetism and electrostatics.

Electric charge

Can be either positive or negative, with electrons having a negative charge and protons having a positive charge.

Conductors

Materials through which electric current flows easily, such as metals.

Insulators

Materials that have a very high resistance to the flow of electric current.

Static electricity

Describes the situation when electric charges remain stationary, occurring best with insulators.

Charging by friction

When insulating materials are rubbed together, electrons are transferred, causing one material to gain electrons and become negatively charged.

Force and charge

Charged objects attract uncharged objects when brought close together.

Attraction and repulsion

Different types of charge attract, while like charges repel each other.

Hazards of static electricity

Static electricity can cause sparks that may lead to fires or explosions.

Electromagnetism

A phenomenon where electric current can create a magnetic field, first noticed by Hans Ørsted.

Right-hand grip rule

A method to determine the direction of the magnetic field around a wire, using the right hand with the thumb in the direction of the electric current.

Electromagnets

Consist of a current carrying coil wrapped around an iron core.

Uses of electromagnets

Applications include scrap yard cranes, electric bells, and relay switches.

Speaker operation

Current passing through a coil in the iron core creates a magnetic field, causing vibrations which produce sound.

Static charge build-up

Occurs when oil or petrol is pumped along pipes, potentially causing explosions due to sparks.

Antistatic floors

Floors made of antistatic material to prevent doctors from becoming statically charged in operating theatres.

Electrostatic precipitator

Device that prevents dust and ash from entering the atmosphere by using charged grids.

Induction of charge

An uncharged object can become charged when brought close to a charged object.

Magnetic field lines

Visual representation of magnetic fields, showing the strength and direction around a current-carrying wire.